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Suppression of Smooth Brome by Atrazine, Mowing, and Fire

by

Gary D. Willson1 and James Stubbendieck2

ABSTRACT - Burning and mowing were evaluated in 1989-1991 at Pipestone National Monument, Minnesota, as alternatives to atrazine to suppress smooth brome (Bromus inermis Leyss.) and to affect seeding success of big bluestem (Andropogon gerardii Vitmann). Atrazine was the only treatment that significantly reduced smooth brome tiller density (-77% 1990; -70% 1991) as compared to unburned controls. Neither burning (-16% 1990; -37% 1991) nor mowing (-16% 1990; +10% 1991) resulted in significant reductions. Sod-seeded big bluestem failed in all treatments in both years. The failure of chemical and non-chemical management to affect sufficient smooth brome control for big bluestem seeding success exemplify the difficulties in restoring native and seeded prairie.

Key words: smooth brome, big bluestem, prescribed fire, mowing, atrazine, sod-seeding

This resource is based on the following source:

Willson, Gary D., and James Stubbendieck.  1996.  Suppression of smooth brome by atrazine, mowing and fire.  The Prairie Naturalist 28(1):1-20.

This resource should be cited as:

Willson, Gary D., and James Stubbendieck.  1996.  Suppression of smooth brome by atrazine, mowing and fire.  The Prairie Naturalist 28(1):1-20.  Jamestown, ND: Northern Prairie Science Wildlife Research Center Online.  http://www.npwrc.usgs.gov/resource/habitat/smthbrom/index.htm (Version 16JUL1997).

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1National Biological Service, Central Plains/Ozark Plateau Field Station, Columbia, MO 65211

2Department of Agronomy, University of Nebraska, Lincoln, NE 68583

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